Spring-Loaded Camera Module Mounting for Vehicle Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing imaging system for motor vehicles faces challenges in accurately aligning camera modules within camera housings due to attachment methods that introduce positional and orientational deviations, causing tension and complicating the alignment process, especially under varying conditions like off-road driving.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded attachment mechanism using a first ring and second ring with abutments and projections to securely position and orient the camera module without additional tools, allowing for easy manual or tool-assisted alignment and compensation for vibrations, ensuring accurate positioning and reduced tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the camera module is attached via screws or rigid attachment means, then the attachment strength is improved, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to attachment forces moving the module from the predefined position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing a spring element between the camera module and the attachment means. This spring element pre-absorbs attachment forces and prevents them from transmitting to the camera module, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while still providing secure attachment. The spring acts as a cushion that decouples the rigid connection from the precision positioning requirement.
2Reliability
If rigid attachment means are used, then the fixation reliability is improved, but tensions are introduced in the camera module and housing
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element serves as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes attachment forces, preventing concentration of stresses in the camera module and housing. By providing compliant attachment, the system maintains fixation reliability through the spring's elastic properties while avoiding the tension problems associated with rigid attachment.
3Device complexity
If manual alignment and attachment procedures are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the alignment time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the spring element and attachment means to automatically guide and secure the camera module in its correct position. The spring-loaded attachment mechanism is designed beforehand to self-align and self-latch, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment procedures while maintaining simple device architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise and easy attachment of camera modules, reducing the impact of attachment forces on positioning, minimizing tension in the module and housing, and effectively compensating for vibrations and misalignments, thereby improving image quality across various driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the spring element is designed regarding the spring forces to fix the camera module in all possible driving situations
Implementation Method 2
the camera module is spring loaded against the first abutments with at least one spring element
Implementation Method 3
it is further possible to compensate for small vibrations and to reduce therefore negative effects on the camera module and the signal generated therein
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system (1) for a motor vehicle, having a camera housing (2) and at least one camera module (3) to be mounted to the camera housing (2). The camera housing (2) is provided with an arrangement of at least two first abutments (4,5,6) with a defined geometry and orientation at which the camera module (2) abuts, wherein the camera module (3) is spring loaded against the first abutments (4,5,6) with at least one spring element (7).